This exquisite silver claret jug was crafted between 1910 and 1920 by renowned German silversmith J.H. Werner, based in Berlin. A striking example of early Art Deco design, the jug features clean geometric lines, elegant proportions, and a fitted lid — all hallmarks of the modernist aesthetic emerging in Europe during this period.
J.H. Werner was a distinguished court jeweller and silversmith, appointed Hofjuwelier (court jeweller) to the German Imperial Court. His firm, founded in the 19th century and located on the prestigious Friedrichstraße in the heart of Berlin, was known for its exceptional craftsmanship and elegant design. Situated in this central and vibrant area, the workshop combined tradition with innovation, serving an elite clientele including nobility and wealthy industrialists.
In the years leading up to and during the Second World War, Werner’s workshop—like many prominent German firms of the time—partially shifted to producing state commissions such as official gifts, medals, and ceremonial regalia for the Nazi regime. Despite these challenging times, the technical mastery and refined quality of Werner’s work remained evident.
This lidded jug, made in an earlier and more refined era, stands apart as a quiet expression of that legacy—both functional and decorative, with a timeless beauty that speaks to the artistry of its maker. A rare opportunity to own a piece of German silversmithing history.
The claret jug is made of 800 silver, a common standard for German silverware.
